Prohibition | WhyDid.com

Why Did You Wear That: Cocktail Hour

By Kirsten|December 31st, 2013|Why Did You Wear That?|

The one garnish certain to undoubtedly make a drink that much more chic with each clink of the glass is one that you bring to the party yourself. No, you aren’t going to tote a jar of bleu cheese stuffed olives in your Prada to the next party. This garnish is right at your fingertips… well, really just your fingers. The fastest way to add extra bling is by slipping on a cocktail ring while sipping on a cocktail or two. Originally made popular during the prohibition era as a kind of flamboyant “eff you”, the cocktail ring later became popular with single ladies who wore giant jewels on their right ring fingers as a sign of independence. Being a woman looking forward to planting a kiss on no one other than her pooch this year, I like the idea of a cocktail ring in that context. But whether you’re single or attached, there’s nothing wrong with adding an extra rock for cocktail hour.

1. Bijoux Heart La Terr D’Or Gold Plated Swarovski Crystal Ring, 2. Elizabeth and James Northern Star Cabochon Ring, 3. IPPOLITA Mother of Pearl Clear Quartz and Sterling Ring, 4. Gemma Redux Mood Ring, 5. Vanessa Mooney The Purple Haze Ring, 6. Anita Ko 18 Karat Gold Diamond Ring, 7. Kelly Wearstler Myra Ring, 8. Scott Kay Recessed Cross Ring, 9. Maison Martin Margiela Double Faux Diamond Ring, 10. AERIN Erickson Beamon Gemstone Cocktail Ring, 11. Alexis Bittar Mirrored Citrine Ring, 12. Gurhan Pandora Hammered 24 Karat Gold Amethyst Ring, 13. Monserat De Lucca Drunk Sober Ring, 14. Jade Jagger Diamond Disco Ball Ring, 15. Jacquie Aiche Moonstone Diamond and 14 Karat Rose Gold Ring, 16. Lanvin Borneo Gunmetal Tone Swarovski Crystal Ring

xx,

WhyDid

Setting the Mood: Party Like It’s 1920

By Kirsten|April 30th, 2013|Setting the Mood|

There’s a reason that the 1920’s seem to be cited as inspiration for so many parties, weddings, and celebrations. There’s also a reason I’ve already used this time period and novel turned movie as inspiration. (Spoiler alert: don’t click if you haven’t read the book. Seriously, you haven’t read the book?). The post World War I, prohibition era was a period of time where excess, glamour, and any good reason to kick up your heels ruled and no one made any apologies about it. Our generation seems to wax poetic of this time and from a fashion standpoint, I can see why. Finger waves, rising hemlines, and the transition from strict conservatism (hello, sportswear) all emerged along with advances in closures (hook and eyes, zippers, snaps) and fabric (rayon). With the release of The Great Gatsby next month, there’s sure to be an onslaught of 20’s themed summer soirees. So, start channeling your inner Daisy ahead of time.

Deepa Gurnani Scalloped Headband, Skaist-Taylor Cropped Mongolian Lamb Jacket, Club Monaco Bridget Feather Skirt,Reed Krakoff Leather, Mesh, and Feather Sandals

Now, go read the book. You’ve still got time.

xx,

WhyDid

Friday Frocks: It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere

By Kirsten|October 14th, 2011|Friday Frocks, Why Did You Wear That?|

Quite frequently (especially during this time of year) we receive invites for cocktail parties or invitations with a dress code stating “cocktail attire,” but what does that really mean? We’ve come to know that slipping into a slinky LBD (little black dress) is the way to go, but shall we take a little trip back in time? Well, you have no choice… cause we’re gonna.

Cocktail parties first gained popularity in the 1920’s during prohibition (aka when alcohol was illegal). So, since the sale and consumption of alcohol in public would land you behind bars (no pun intended), cocktail parties popped up as private social gatherings. And just like us modern girls, the ladies of the 20’s realized that they needed a little something special to wear to these functions. Alas, cocktail attire was born! The first cocktail dresses were waistless, knee length, and reminiscent of the flapper (cause a lot of them were flappers). And these ladies knew how to accessorize! Small embellished bags, gloves, and hats were all a part of the attire. Shoes were slipper like and often dyed to match the dresses.

By the 1950’s, cocktail hour was part of the culture and while the tradition continued, groups opted to go out rather than stay in, which is more in line with what we consider our modern day cocktail hour or “happy hour.” This week, let’s check out some frocks that would have made even the tartiest flapper smile.

1. Oscar de la Renta Feather Trimmed Silk Mesh Dress, $5,390, 2. Red Valentino Bow Dress, $611, 3. Kova & T Windsor Cocktail Dress, $429, 4. French Connection Winter Bex Beads Dress, $328, 5. Juicy Couture Guipure Lace Dress, $328, 6. Vanessa Bruno Athe Dress, $360, 7. Top Shop Scallop Embellished Drop Waist Dress, $330, 8. Top Shop Lace Panel Pleated Tunic, $76, 9. Accidentally in Love Crinkle Popover Dress, $54, 10. Tibi Rococo Print Silk Twill Cap Sleeve Dress, $462